Top tips for Visiting Nova Scotia, Canada

Godfrey Hall

Award winning travel writer

If travelling from the UK to Canada, fly to Halifax which is
less than six hours. There are regular flights on WestJet and Air Canada. Halifax
is quiet and an excellent entry point for North America.

Nova Scotia is very rural, so it is best to hire a car from
the airport. The roads are uncongested, and the airport is outside the city of
Halifax. However, be aware of some of the potholes around the province. The
weather can also be quite fickle so come prepared.

You will find the people extremely friendly. So, don’t hesitate
to ask if you get stuck, lost or have a problem.

Nova Scotia produces some excellent wines and the vineyards
are quite spectacular. There are also plenty of craft beers on offer from the
many micro-breweries.

There are a large number of traditional inns which are worth
investigating.

There are a lot of options for breakfast including baked
beans with maple syrup or molasses, an acquired taste.Breakfasts can be quite substantial, and the
fishcakes are delicious.

Make a visit to Hall’s Harbour and the tiny cafe at the end
of the jetty. Here you can feast on lobster and experience some of the world’s
highest tides. If you can, take the tour which gives you the background to lobster
fishing in the area.

Halifax is small by city standards so easy to navigate. The
quayside is very attractive and so are the public gardens. For an excellent shopping
mall just hop on one of the many buses outside the park gates and ask the
driver to let you know when to get off.

Harbour Hopper Tours will take you around the city in their
amphibious craft and then out onto the harbour. Quite an experience as you hit
the water!

The lighthouse at Peggy’s Cove is one of the most photographed
lighthouses in the world. An enchanting village, it is extremely photogenic. It
can get very busy but with a clever eye you can usually get some pictures without
the crowds. The family run restaurant near the lighthouse is worth a visit.

Lunenburg is extremely attractive. A UNESCO World Heritage
site you should try breakfast at the Savvy Sailor. The walking tour around the
town provides an insight into life as it was and explores some of the many
historic buildings. An early morning walk is a great way for getting a feel of
this small town which is also known for the famous Bluenose II, a replica of
the fishing schooner.

Nova Scotia is a large island, so if you have a limited time
don’t go too far.

Wolfville is within easy reach of the airport and a delightful
town on the Bay of Funday. It has a pretty centre and some wonderful views down
by the jetty. Look out for the rural farmers market which is a great way of
getting a flavour of the area. Very popular with the locals, just ask for
directions.

Visit in the spring or autumn when the leaves are changing
colour. It is a good alternative to New England which can get very busy.

Life is very laid back in Nova Scotia, it is a beautiful
part of the Atlantic Coastline. One area which is particularly attractive is
the Cabot Trail. However, set aside several days for this trip. Otherwise
concentrate around Halifax, Lunenburg, Peggy’s Cove and the region around the
Bay of Funday.